What are typical symptoms of a surgical site infection (SSI)?

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are localized infections that can occur after surgical procedures, and they present specific symptoms that are critical for diagnosis and management. The classic signs of an SSI include redness, swelling, warmth, and increased pain in the area surrounding the surgical site. Additionally, the presence of pus or drainage from the wound is a strong indicator of infection. These symptoms are indicative of the body's inflammatory response to infection, helping healthcare providers identify and address the infection promptly.

Other symptoms, such as fever and nausea, can be associated with infections in general but are not specific to SSIs, making them less reliable for diagnosis in this context. Similarly, while headache and fatigue can occur due to various reasons, including illness, they are not directly indicative of an SSI. Increased blood pressure and rash are also non-specific symptoms that do not directly relate to SSIs and may suggest other health issues altogether.

Focusing on the symptoms described, option B accurately captures the hallmark features of a surgical site infection, highlighting the critical signs that practitioners should monitor for in patients post-surgery. Understanding these symptoms is essential for the timely identification and treatment of SSIs, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.